corrosion rate in HF and HCl

Not exactly as you ask but maybe be more than 50 mil/yr, since each acid without mix have this value (and just i have for class of steel, not for specific one.

There is a series of books published by MTI call the Material Selector series.
Vol 3 covers HCl and Cl, and Vol 4 covers HF and related.
I believe that you can buy these from NACE for about $300 per volume.

You will find many comments like this:
Neither cast iron nor carbon steel is resistant to hydrochloric acid, even dilute concentrations (<pH 4). Temporary use in emergency situations runs the risk of fire or explosion from hydrogen generated by corrosion.

The tables show corrosion rates for carbon steels at >50mpy at any concentration and any temperature and at zero velocity.
In 36% HCl at 40 C they list 42000 mpy (yes, 42" per year).
In 20% HCl at 25C they list 700mpy
That is another issue, steel will be highly velocity sensitive in this.


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P.E. Metallurgy, Plymouth Tube

Acids in combination can give corrosion rates that are a multiple of either acid alone. A case in point is aqua regia, a mixture of two mineral acids, so named because it is able to dissolve gold.

Also be aware that contaminated acid can give very different corrosion rates than the pure acid.


"Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but they are not entitled to their own facts."

Is this question related to hydrocarbon well stimulation treatment?

Steve Jones
Corrosion Management Consultant


All answers are personal opinions only and are in no way connected with any employer.